NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) — An NYPD officer who made headlines for an act of kindness a year ago was the recipient of a special honor Tuesday.

Officer Lawrence DePrimo was promoted to the rank of detective.

The photo of DePrimo’s act of goodwill went viral and touched hearts all over the country. Arizona tourist Jennifer Foster took a snapshot of Officer Larry DePrimo, 25, giving a barefoot man a new pair of all-weather boots and thermal socks in Times Square on Nov. 14 of last year.

DePrimo went to the Skechers shoe store nearby and purchased $100 all-weather boots and socks for the man.

“When I brought out the shoes, it was just a smile from ear to ear, so it was absolutely amazing,” DePrimo told WCBS 880’s Marla Diamond.

DePrimo said he has not seen the man since last year. His father said he is very proud of his son.